Trail Runner Showcases the Appalachian Trail

As the largest metropolitan area along the Appalachian Trail, Virginia's Blue Ridge is a world-class destination for trail running.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the National Trails System Act, Trail Runner is recognizing many of the best national scenic trails in the United States, including a new feature about the Appalachian Trail in Virginia.

Did you know Virginia has more miles of Appalachian Trail than any other state with 554 miles?

The article highlights many of the best segments of the A.T. in the Commonwealth for trail running, such as the "Catawba Runaround," which is also known locally as the Triple Crown.

"The loop is affectionately known by Virginian hikers as the Triple Crown for the its three well-known high points: Dragon’s Tooth, Tinker Cliff and McAfee’s Knob. The full route boasts a rocky but runnable 7,870 feet of elevation gain on some calf-killing switchbacks, with rewarding treks through shady deciduous forests and across private southwest Virginian farms in-between climbs."